Monte Wellness Centre

The Basics

Located in the outskirts of Lisbon, Portugal in the beautiful rolling hills of the Alentejo countryside, Monte Wellness Centre is a private residential treatment facility for men and women suffering from chemical dependency and co-occurring disorders. The gorgeous surroundings and peaceful atmosphere are the ideal setting for healing, transformation and recovery. The Monte Wellness Centre program caters to an international clientele and provides therapeutic services in English. Far from the triggers of home, residents are able to focus on the process of getting well. The facility is run by UK-based Western Counselling, which has operated a large substance abuse treatment center outside Bristol, England since 1983.

Accommodations and Food

Monte Wellness Centre is situated on several acres of lovely countryside. It has the look and feel of a luxury boutique hotel, with just a seven-bed capacity. Clients are each given private rooms with en suite bathrooms. The beautifully decorated bedrooms include queen-sized beds, dressers, closets and armchairs. The grounds feature manicured lawns, gardens, a tennis court and a pool.

The house chef, Rita, serves clients three fresh meals a day, along with nutritious snacks made from local ingredients. Fresh fruit and healthy snacks are available all day. Any type of dietary restrictions can be accommodated upon request.

Treatment and Staff

Upon arrival at Monte Wellness Centre, clients undergo a comprehensive assessment and receive an individualized treatment plan. Detox is provided on-site if necessary using Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) with Suboxone. Length of detox varies, but is typically between three and five days. Medical supervision is offered around the clock and on-site medical appointments are provided when appropriate.

Treatment length is typically 30 days, with clients having the option to stay longer. Weekly treatment includes group and individual therapy, psychiatric consultations, workshops, lectures and attendance at 12-step meetings on and off-site. Groups emphasize the 12 steps, addressing trauma, grief and creating a relapse prevention plan. At Monte Wellness Centre, evidence-based practices, including CBT and DBT, along with the Stages of Change model, are incorporated during treatment. Dual diagnosis support is provided for clients with co-occurring disorders, as well as those with eating disorders and gambling addictions.

Extras

A family program invites loved ones to attend one weekend a month of family therapy sessions. Family reintegration allows an opportunity for discussions regarding the support the family might require following treatment, as well as aftercare options in the client’s residential area.

Alternative therapies include art, music, drama and equine therapy. There are weekly on-site yoga and pilates classes, as well as opportunities for Reiki and massage therapy.

In Summary

Monte Wellness Centre provides top notch, comprehensive primary care in a luxurious countryside setting. Given Portugal’s great climate, relative affordability and progressive attitudes toward addiction treatment, this is an excellent choice for those who want a true recovery retreat. The facility address is kept completely confidential to protect the anonymity and safety of clients.